How to care for your skin in winter

Winter can be brutal on your skin. The cold air and low humidity can strip moisture away, leaving you with dry, flaky skin that can become uncomfortable if not cared for properly. This is why understanding how to care for your skin during the winter months is crucial. Here, we will provide practical advice on how to adjust your grooming routine, the products to utilize, and some essential tips to maintain skin health when temperatures drop.

Why is winter hard on your skin?

During winter, the humidity levels drop significantly, which can result in drier indoor environments. Combined with cold temperatures, this often leads to:

• Increased transepidermal water loss, causing dehydration.
• Dry air that can exacerbate conditions like eczema.
• Chapped lips and cracked skin.

Essential steps for winter skincare

To combat winter's harsh effects on your skin, consider the following essential steps:

1. Hydration is key

Keeping your skin hydrated begins with drinking plenty of water. It's important to maintain your body's moisture levels:

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
• Include hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables in your diet.

2. Use a good moisturizer

A thick and rich moisturizer can greatly help in locking moisture into your skin. Here are some tips:

• Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.
• Apply moisturizer right after you shower to seal in moisture.

3. Gentle cleansing

Choose a gentle cleanser that won't strip the natural oils from your skin. Avoid foaming cleansers containing sulfates, as they tend to be more drying. Instead, consider:

• Using creamy or oil-based cleansers.
• Cleaning your skin twice daily - morning and night.

4. Exfoliate wisely

Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, allowing your products to work better. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate:

• Opt for gentle exfoliators with natural ingredients.
• Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week.

5. Protect your skin

During winter, it's still important to apply sunscreen even though the sun may seem less intense:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Reapply every two hours when outdoors.

Best products to consider

Although we won't mention specific products, here are categories you should consider investing in:

Tips for specific skin types

Conclusion

Winter doesn't have to mean dry, uncomfortable skin. By adjusting your skincare routine and using the right products, you can maintain your skin's health and vitality. Remember to hydrate from within, protect and nourish your skin daily, and consider your specific skin type when selecting products. For further grooming advice, check out our guides on tips & advice or explore our collection of skincare essentials.